Saint John’s Catholic Prep views sportsmanship as more than just following rules; it’s the embodiment of honor, demanding courtesy, fairness, and profound respect in every facet of athletic engagement. This encompasses the conduct of our players, the enthusiasm of our spectators, the guidance of our coaches, and the leadership of our school authorities. We believe that exemplary sportsmanship is the cornerstone of positive support for all members of the MIAA and IAAM, as well as for each individual athlete participating in our programs. Within our interscholastic community, demonstrating respect and upholding good sportsmanship is not just encouraged—it is an unwavering expectation for everyone involved.
At Saint John’s Catholic Prep, we are committed to ensuring our coaching staff consistently embodies the principles of good sportsmanship through specific, actionable practices:
- Rule Adherence and Policy Compliance: Our coaches are thoroughly versed in and committed to upholding all current MIAA and IAAM regulations, alongside school and league policies. This also extends to a deep understanding of the school’s operational and emergency procedures, ensuring the safety and fairness of all athletic activities. Furthermore, a strong grasp of the fundamental tenets of sportsmanship is considered paramount.
- Positive Role Modeling: Coaches are expected to be exemplary figures of positive sportsmanship, actively setting the standard for appropriate conduct. They are trained to proactively manage and control any instances of unsportsmanlike behavior, fostering a respectful and ethical environment.
- Respect for Officiating Integrity: Maintaining respect for the integrity and the impartial judgment of game officials is crucial. Our coaches are instructed to demonstrate this respect in their interactions and to instill this value in their athletes.
- Respectful Interactions: Treating players, fellow coaches, opposing teams, and officials with the utmost respect is non-negotiable. This fosters a climate of mutual understanding and dignity within all athletic competitions.
- Holistic Athlete Development: Coaches play a vital role in nurturing a positive self-image in student-athletes. They are encouraged to help students maintain a balanced perspective, understanding the importance of athletics within the broader context of their academic pursuits and life aspirations. This ensures that sports contribute positively to their overall growth and well-being.
- Preseason Sportsmanship Education: Open communication is key. Coaches are required to discuss the essential components of good sportsmanship explicitly with both student-athletes and their parents during mandatory preseason meetings. This proactive approach ensures that expectations are clear and shared from the outset.
- Continuous Professional Development: To stay informed and effective, our coaches regularly attend mandatory rules clinics. This commitment to ongoing education ensures they are up-to-date with the latest regulations and best practices in promoting sportsmanship.
Saint John’s Catholic Prep places equally high expectations on our student-athletes, encouraging them to consistently demonstrate the following principles of good sportsmanship:
- Integrity and Fair Play in Competition: Student-athletes are expected to compete with unwavering integrity, displaying perseverance and a strong sense of fair play in every contest. Winning is valued, but not at the expense of ethical conduct and honest effort.
- Promoting a Welcoming Atmosphere: Creating a friendly and inclusive environment for visiting schools is a priority. Student-athletes are encouraged to be welcoming hosts, contributing to a positive and respectful inter-school dynamic.
- Respectful Conduct Towards All: Treating teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect in all situations is paramount. This fosters a culture of mutual regard and consideration, essential for positive athletic experiences.
- Exercising Self-Control: Learning to accept officials’ decisions with self-control is a vital aspect of sportsmanship. Student-athletes are taught to manage their emotions and demonstrate composure, even in moments of disappointment or disagreement.
- Post-Contest Courtesies: The tradition of shaking hands with opponents after each contest is upheld as a symbol of respect and acknowledgement of shared effort and competition, regardless of the outcome.
- Serving as Positive School Ambassadors: Student-athletes are recognized as role models within the broader student body. They are encouraged to understand and embrace this role, positively influencing their peers through their exemplary conduct and sportsmanship both on and off the field.
Through these comprehensive expectations for both coaches and student-athletes, Saint John’s Catholic Prep cultivates a robust culture of sportsmanship, ensuring that athletics enriches the character development and overall experience of every participant within our community.
